There is a steep rise in the usage of Hackintosh laptops as multiple users are trying to install macOS on their laptops. Versatility, compactness, and compatibility are important virtues with regards to laptops. Hackintosh, as the name suggests, is a modified version of Apple’s macOS that is capable of running on other devices. To use it, you need to have compatible hardware with the OS on your laptop. This feature differentiates it from Windows OS or Linux OS.
Nowadays, there are plenty of laptops available in the market which will suit your purpose. But the dilemma is which laptop should be availed for converting to a Hackintosh. A wrong decision will end up collapsing the laptop as well as squandering all your hard-earned money. The bigger picture is that we are providing you a list of the best Hackintosh laptops for those who are eager to create their Hackintosh. Though you might find them associated with the best names in the industry, they are equally robust with macOS.
But before landing on any decision you must be aware about the key specifications that should be present in a laptop so that it can be transformed into a Hackintosh. Hence, Hackintosh employs the best of Macintosh Operating System (Mac OS) integrated into a user-selected, heavy-duty, third-party hardware (laptop). Merging a fully functional Mac OS into non-Apple hardware provides you unsurpassed experience in computing.
What is Hackintosh?
Hackintosh is merging of the two terms Hacking and Mackintosh together. As previously mentioned, Hackintosh is a tweaked macOS that is installable on non-Apple devices or other hardware platforms that are not meant for the same.
Technology geeks who are always on the verge of improvisation seek pleasure in exploring this elite category of computer systems. In simple terms, the purpose of Hackintosh laptops is to use macOS on devices that are not compatible with it.
Hackintosh is nothing but a laptop that’s been hacked to run the Apple macOS operating system. So, if you are eyeing to use the Mac software without spending exorbitantly on an Apple product, a Hackintosh is the new solution for you.
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Why go for Hackintosh?
Not everyone is capable of affording an Apple MacBook Pro or Air, so they instead buy the latest upgraded Windows laptops which are well suited to Hackintosh software, and installing it in the laptop saves exorbitant money. The price of an Apple Macbook is too high which makes users settling up with a machine compatible with Hackintosh to set it up.
Hackintosh is a decent hardware combined with an excellent software. It gives you a wonderful experience both economically and satisfies your technological cravings.
Windows might allow its users with better hardware specifications and freedom of using the software which might not be assured to loyal users of Mac Laptops. Hence, Hackintosh allows its user’s the freedom to choose their favorite hardware at much fairer costs with comparable specifications.
List of Best Hackintosh Laptops
- Acer Predator 17
- DELL XPS 15 – 9550
- DELL INSPIRON 15 7559
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme
- HP Spectre x360
- Dell Inspiron 15 5000
- Asus ZenBook Ultra-Slim Laptop
- ACER ASPIRE E 15
- ASUS VIVOBOOK FLIP 14
- HP Probook 450 G5
After brainstorming several Hackintosh compatible laptops and testing them to their extremes, we have shortlisted ten best Hackintosh laptops, competent in handling Mac OS for our readers.
These laptops are used by top-notch professionals who are experts in their fields and using Hackintosh for a long time. So, let’s start with the list.
Acer Predator 17
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 2.8GHz Intel Core i7-7700HQ
- Screen Size: 17.3-inch FHD IPS
- Storage: 256GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- Memory: 16GB RAM
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070
Acer Predator 17 is a highly configured laptop and surely a sturdy machine. For all the gaming enthusiasts, this is an amazing laptop featuring Intel i7 processor (up to 3.8GHz).
Its full HD screen size of 17.3 inches and magnificent picture quality makes it an ideal choice for gaming. The display screen uses the NVIDIA G-Sync technology. This gaming laptop comes with a 16GB DDR4 RAM which is more than enough for multi-tasking at a high speed without noticing any lags in gaming like screen freezing or laptop getting hanged.
Coming to the storage part, it provides 1TB HDD and 256GB SSD. Having a 256GB SSD makes it much faster, durable, and lighter. The boot-up speed of the operating system is very fast because of 256GB SSD. Although the SSD of Acer Predator is not that fast as that of Apple MacBook, but certainly it is way better than other laptops offering in-built SSD.
It offers a programmable RGB featured backlit keyboard to provide a smooth and astonishing audio experience. The GeForce GTX 1070 is enabled with full graphic acceleration that helps in playing high end games smoothly or watching crystal cleat high quality HD videos. It has a decent battery backup of about 5 hours. Even iMessage works perfectly fine on the laptop.
With all these features loaded in Acer Predator 17, it is a top-notch choice for a Hackintosh laptop and takes complete advantage of macOS.
Pros
- Large screen size for gaming
- Very fast boot up time
- HD quality display with lively colors
- 256GB inbuilt SSD
- Full graphics acceleration enabled
Cons
- Massive size to hold
- Price is on the higher side
DELL XPS 15 – 9550
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 6th Generation Intel Skylake Core i7-6700HQ Quad Core
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch (4K Ultra HD Display)
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Memory: 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M
- Weight: 1.78 Kg
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac
Dell XPS 15 comes with Intel Core i7-6700HQ Quad Core processor and provides an HD quality 4K 15.6 inch touch display. It is a feature-rich laptop with Ultra HD screen and silver anodized aluminum shell. The touch is very smooth and comfortable as it is made up of high quality coating. The screen has a 1000: 1 contrast ratio along with vibrant colors.
It just weighs 1.78 kg and is one of the lightest laptops having a very glossy design. It’s actually 59% thinner when compared with MacBook Pro. This makes it a very good choice for a Hackintosh laptop.
It comes with 8GB RAM (can be expanded up to 32GB). Coming to the storage part, it offers 512GB SSD which can be expanded up to 1TB. It provides excellent CPU performance and is a premium range laptop. A very important feature is that RAM, WLAN, and SSD are all user upgradable. Therefore, you can configure it as per your needs and requirements.
You don’t need to compromise with connectivity as it provides the latest Thunderbolt ports as well as HDMI, USB 3.0 port, and Ethernet. It can easily run high end games at 60 frames per second (FPS) when configured at high settings of 1080p.
It doesn’t heat up much as there are 2 fans down the laptop sucking the cool air and expelling the same from vents which are placed cleverly just behind the hinge. Corning Gorilla Glass protects the screen and undoubtedly the laptop is an all-rounder powerhouse that takes your experience to a completely new level.
So, if you are planning to buy a fast Hackintosh machine with top-notch display and lightweight, Dell XPS 15 is the ideal choice.
Pros
- High end specifications
- Aluminum casing which is scratch resistant
- Easy to set up
- 512 GB SSD for fast processing
- Vibrant 4K touch screen display
- Lightest 15 inch laptop
- Elegant and glossy design
- Ease of setting it up
Cons
- Price of laptop is high
- System upgrades burns a hole in your pocket. Too costly.
- Absence of dedicated numeric keypad
- Position of webcam
DELL INSPIRON 15 7559
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Quad Core i7-6700HQ 2.6 GHz Processor
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Storage: 1TB HDD + 8GB SSD
- Memory: 8 GB DDR3 SDRAM
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M 4GB
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac
- Weight: 2.7 kg
Inspiron has been the most selling and popular laptop of Dell for years as it is cost-effective. While XPS has been created for high end customers, Inspiron still targets usual customers who want to perform their daily tasks.
Inspiron 15 7559 comes with an HD 4k IPS UHD touchscreen with high end pixels (3840 x 2160). It uses the latest Skylake Intel Quad Core i7 with a 2.6 GHz Processor. It is equipped with 8GB RAM and 1TB HDD along with 8GB SSD. The Graphics card used in the laptop is NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M 4GB. It is suitable for gamers who are looking for a laptop that doesn’t heat up easily and has no lags while gaming.
It comes with a backlit keyboard so that you can enjoy playing games at night also. The touchpad is smooth giving accurate gesture and is pretty responsive. It provides 3 USB ports and the speed is around 100 MB/s while using an external HDD.
In terms of performance, this laptop is capable of easily performing multitasking including power consuming tasks such as 3D rendering and HD quality video editing. Heavy games can be easily played with no additional load on CPU. Battery backup is good and can keep running the laptop for 11 hours.
With all these unmatched features, it is an ideal choice for an economical Hackintosh laptop and a good option to vouch for.
Pros
- High end specifications
- Numeric keypad and Backlit keyboard
- Exceptional gaming experience
- Value for money
- Excellent gaming experience
- Minimal heating
- Sufficient hard disk space
- Swift processor
Cons
- A little bulky (slightly under 2.6 kg)
- Lower screen brightness
- Resilience issues if mishandled
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 2.2GHz Intel Core i7-8750H
- Screen Size: 15.6-inch FHD LED (1920 x 1080)
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Memory: 16GB DDR4 RAM
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme comes up with the latest 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processor along with a 9MB cache memory. 4.1GHz turbo boost adds to its power and the laptop will run flawlessly.
It has a screen size of 15.6 inches with a 4K HDR display that provides an excellent picture quality, even better than retina display present in Apple MacBook.
With a 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, it will provide steady performance and you will have plenty of space to keep your files or install Hackintosh. Gamers are surely going to like this laptop because it is made for multi-tasking and has no lags even while playing very heavy online games. To support gaming, it is packed with a GeForce GTX 1050 Graphics card that helps in adding fabulous graphical visuals.
The laptop is light in weight making it easy to carry and the battery life is good which lasts up to 8 hours. The keyboard is designed in such a manner that you will feel comfortable even after typing for long hours. In order to boost the performance, multiple connectivity features are provided such as multi-monitor support, 4 USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, optional RJ45 port, and smart card readers. It also has built-in Bluetooth for transferring files easily.
With so many features and great graphics, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme is surely capable of handling all the computing tasks to be a good choice for Hackintosh.
Pros
- Multi-monitor support
- High capacity DDR4 RAM
- Value for Money
- Excellent VR/MR experience
- Lightweight and durable
- Comfortable keyboard for typing
Cons
- Laptop might heat up sometimes
- Battery life is average in some cases
HP Spectre x360
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 2.2GHz Intel Core i7-8565U
- Screen Size: 13.3-inch Touchscreen
- Memory: 16GB RAM
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Battery life: 12 hours
- Graphics Card: Intel UHD620
It is one of the best laptops launched by HP till date. It is a 2 in 1 laptop and has a very stylish look. It comes up with an Intel Core i7 processor (1.80 GHz) and also features Intel’s Turbo Boost.
It has a 13.3 inch FHD touchscreen that provides superb picture quality while viewing HD videos or playing games. The touchscreen feature makes it more user-friendly and easy to use.
It has a very fast processor and weighs only 1.32 kg so that you can carry it anywhere. It uses Intel’s UHD Graphics card and the processing speed is very fast. A 16GB RAM makes the multi-tasking super easy and you will not experience any lags or screen hangs anytime. For storing files, it provides a 512GB SSD storage which is sufficient enough to install Hackintosh and still has lots of space left.
As it rotates complete 360 degrees, it can be used as a tablet. It also has fingerprint security for unlocking the laptop. The battery is quite impressive with the backup lasting for more than 12 hours. Also, it supports fast charging which means you can charge the laptop 100% within 45 minutes only.
There are many other additional features such as HP Audio Boost, Quad Speakers, inbuilt Bluetooth, etc.
With so many useful features in a single laptop, it is surely a very good choice for a Hackintosh laptop.
Pros
- Battery life is very good
- HD display Touchscreen
- Offers 2-in-1 functionality
- fingerprint security to unlock
- Supports fast charging
- Backlit keyboard
- Stylish and Lightweight
- High end specifications
Cons
- Pricey laptop
- A separate numeric keypad is not available
Dell Inspiron 15 5000
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 1.6GHz Intel Core i5-8250U
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch Touch LED FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Storage: 1TB HDD
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Graphics Card: Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Battery life: Up to 5 hours
This is a 2018 model created by Dell to set a benchmark in the Hackintosh laptop market. It comprises of 8th Gen i5 processor, considered as best. Its sleek body and just about 3 pounds weight makes it similar to a MacBook.
It has superb picture quality due to Full HD 15.6 inch touchscreen display. It comprises of 8GB RAM and a substantial 1TB storing capacity. The absence of SSD drive makes it a bit slower but there is scope for upgradation later on.
Quite similar to MacBook if converted to a potent Hackintosh laptop this is the best option in the market. Some of its pros are Backlit Keyboard with 802.11 Dual Band Wireless-AC. It also has a Bluetooth 4.2 combined with HD Webcam. The only disadvantage is a short battery life of 5 hours.
Unfailing connectivity with Dell Wi-Fi adaptor is its unique feature. You are in safe hands with a decent warranty period. A perfect blend of precision, style, and swiftness, this is an apt product to choose from.
Pros
- Latest and powerful processor
- Built is quite similar to MacBook
- Excellent GPU properties
- Huge storage capacity
Cons
- Reduced battery life
- Absence of SSD drive
Asus ZenBook Ultra-Slim Laptop
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 4GHz Intel Core i7-8550U
- Screen Size: 14 inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
- Graphics Card: Intel HD Graphics 620
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Storage: 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- Warranty: 1 year
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours
ZenBook series presents you with the slimmest laptop i.e. Asus ZenBook Ultra-Slim. It comes up with an 8th gen i7 processor which can be augmented up to 4.0GHz frequency. The 14-inch screen with 72% NTSC and 300 units Display, presents an astonishing picture quality and clearness.
Furthermore, the smooth functioning of multiple apps is possible due to its 8GB RAM. Moreover, the immense storage capacity comprising of HDD & SSD combined together increases the speed manifold. Storage space is huge and you can easily keep your files without worrying about the space at all. High end games can be played easily and multi-tasking seems powerful with no lags. Quite similar to MacBook and weighing 3.1 lbs it is very compact and can be easily carried anywhere.
With exceptionally great battery power, you won’t need a charger for a complete day. It possesses some advanced features such as Modern Standby, Cortana, Windows Hello, and Continuum mode.
All these features make it a good choice for Hackintosh within a budget range.
Pros
- Admirable display quality
- Battery power is huge
- Highly handy and ultra-sleek
- Astounding speakers
Cons
- Unattractive and basic VGA camera
ACER ASPIRE E 15
Key Specifications:
- CPU: 1.6GHz Intel Core i5-8250U
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch IPS
- Memory: 16GB RAM
- Storage: 256GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- Battery Life: 7 hours
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce MX150
It is a very good laptop for daily use and is budget friendly. It comes with 15.6 inch Full HD screen with IPS display which gives a bright and clear picture. It runs on Intel Core i5 processor and the speed is fast enough. A graphics card of Intel UHD 620 is used which makes it an ideal choice to be compatible with a Hackintosh laptop. The processor will easily perform the multi-tasking requirements for Hackintosh computing.
A 16GB RAM and a massive 1TB HDD storage along with 256GH SSD make it more powerful. It is self-customizable with the access panel present at the bottom of the laptop. With the help of access panel, memory and storage can be upgraded easily as per your needs and requirements. Therefore, it serves the purpose of future upgrades as well.
It has stereo speakers, USB C-port, and an HD webcam. TrueHarmony sound system has been used in the laptop to make your experience of playing games and watching HD videos enjoyable.
These unique and advanced features make it a good choice laptop for hackers and gadget freaks.
Pros
- User friendly and affordable
- Best graphics quality
- Battery life is good
- Performance is good while multi-tasking
Cons
- Uses DDR3 which is a bit slower
ASUS VIVOBOOK FLIP 14
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Quad-Core i5-8250U processor
- Screen Size: 14 inch HD Touchscreen
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Storage: 1TB HDD
- Graphics Card: Intel UHD Graphics 620
ASUS device gives you great performance at an economical and swift rate. It comes with a 14 inch Full HD Touchscreen display and has a 2 in 1 flip & fold design. It is very compact and handy to use, thus making it a good choice to vouch for.
It’s equipped with 8 GB RAM and 1TB HDD. It creates no issues with swiftness and storage. The presence of 8th generation Intel Core surely increases its performance manifold. Aided with an aluminum chassis it weighs about 3.5 lbs. Its miniature body and lightweight makes it a great choice. Intel UHD Graphics 620 provides the best support for playing heavy games without any lags.
The 2-in-1 flexible form factor, a fingerprint reader, and a touch screen are added advantages in this laptop. It has 4 USB ports, HDMI, and inbuilt Bluetooth. Hackintosh conversion is boosted due to these additional features. The price is also quite reasonable.
Pros
- Touchscreen display
- Fresh aluminum design
- Multiple connectivity options
- High Resolution
- Multiple USB Ports
Cons
- Ordinary screen, inappropriate for a 360° concept
- Absence of Antiglare Screen.
- Absence of VGA Port.
HP Probook 450 G5
Key Specifications:
- CPU: i5-8250U Processor 3.40GHz
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Memory: 8 GB DDR4 RAM
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Graphics Card: Intel UHD Graphics 620
It is an affordable laptop with a 15.6 inch display screen. It comes with Intel UHD Graphics 620 and can easily run high end games with no lags. It can be easily set up with the installation of macOS High Sierra and the hardware acceleration works perfectly.
It has 8GB RAM and a storage of 256GB SSD. It provides a compatible USB-C type port and has a backlit keyboard. File management has been made very easy and thus vanilla installation is preferred in the laptop.
Pros
- Budget friendly
- No heating issues
- Easy setup
Cons
- No DVD support
- Sometimes having glitch issues
Last update on 2020-12-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API